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Elk County Concert Choir involved in many aspects of music

The Elk County Concert Choir has been practicing for weeks for the holiday season’s upcoming performances. This year’s showings are entitled the "Tapestry of Light: a Celtic Christmas Celebration." The shows are scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Ridgway and Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in St. Marys. Admission is free, and refreshments will be provided.The group of singers is comprised of 45 volunteers from Elk County. They practice every Monday for two hours at the First Presbyterian Church in Ridgway. Being a part of the concert choir takes immense dedication and devotion. “The volunteers come back because they love to sing and they enjoy the fellowship,” said Gloria Almquist-Shull, Principal Director.The concert series is a non-profit event but any donations given are directed to furthering the future of music. “We give a scholarship to a senior student who will be pursuing a career in music,” Almquist-Shull said. “Last year’s winner was Mitchell Jerko.”Almquist-Shull has many years of experience in and around music. She holds a Master’s degree in Music Education from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. Now retired, Almquist-Shull taught music for 38 years in the Ridgway Area School District. “I’ve been in music all my life,” she said. “(Directing the choir) is a nice thing for me. I really enjoy working with the people because they are fun and dedicated.”Pick up a copy of the Monday, Nov. 28, 2011 edition of The Ridgway Record for more.